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Stress Epigenetics

Meaning

Stress Epigenetics is the study of how psychological or physiological stress exposure can induce heritable changes in gene expression without altering the underlying DNA sequence. This field investigates how chronic or severe stress, mediated through hormones like cortisol and catecholamines, can modify the epigenome, potentially leading to long-term changes in hormonal sensitivity and disease risk across generations. Understanding this mechanism is vital for appreciating the profound, lasting impact of environmental factors on health.